If you’re planning a getaway to the bright lights and big dreams of Las Vegas yet covet staying at a hotel that is close to the action but beckons as a restorative oasis from the sensory overload, Four Seasons Las Vegas is the dream destination. With all of the bling-bling titillation surrounding the Las Vegas Strip, a luxury hotel that seamlessly spirits you away from the hustle into a haven of calm, is really the best of both worlds. But with its easy access at the southern end of the Strip, I also made the hotel my base for wider forays with Nevada’s many nuggets. Best of all, Allegiant Stadium is just a short stroll away from the hotel. 

Just a 30 minute drive away, take a jaunt to the fiery-hued glory of Red Rock Canyon. A paved loop throughout the park makes for a beautiful drive and provides ample opportunities to get out and stretch your legs. Less than an hour away is one of the USA’s iconic engineering marvels, the awe-inspiring height and heft of the Hoover Dam. Walking out onto the arched span of the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge  to drink in the grandeur of this man-made marvel. It’s an undeniably thrilling spectacle. And for more natural kicks, the aptly named Valley of Fire State Park should be on your check-list, too. Towering red rocks, dramatic landscapes and swirling rock formations will soon fill your Insta-feed. The hotel concierge team will happily arrange and tailor any sightseeing experiences top your wish-list. Heading out for dinner, shopping or a show? The hotel’s house car is at your service for complimentary drop-offs within a 5km radius.  

Red Rock Canyon. Photo / Travel Nevada

Within the hotel, the Four Seasons Las Vegas feels like its own blissed-out bubble of luxury, housed within the gargantuan footprint of Mandalay Bay. Accommodations are confined to floors 35-39 of the property, so you’re guaranteed a spectacularly elevated view across Sin City. The hotel is a gaming-free sanctuary – although you can always pop next door to Mandalay Bay if you have such a hankering. Pulling up into the creamy porte cochere, the whip-smart valets and door staff are welcoming and attentive.  

Walking into the lobby, there’s a soothing, peaceful ambience, with thoughtfully curated artworks, marble floors, chic wooden design accents and lots of natural light. the airiness bestowed by high ceilings and natural light. Across all touch-points, the standard of service sparkles - flawlessly efficient, intuitive and personable.  It was an unexpected huge pleasure to also meet the general manager, Kelley Moreton, who happens to be a Kiwi! 

An oasis of style, art, and calm. Photo / Mike Yardley

All of the hotel’s 424 rooms and suites were recently refreshed, with a strong emphasis on heightening the sense of relaxation and communion with the wraparound Nevada landscapes. Colour and texture choices were inspired by the shifting light of the Mojave Desert and those floor-to-ceiling windows provide compelling views, around the clock. From the granite bathrooms to the upholstered headboards, replete with all of the tech-friendly toys that a traveller could wish for, thoughtful luxury and indulgent comfort suffuse the super-spacious accommodation experience. Neutrals, chrome and reflective surfaces with silvery blue/grey fabrics add a super-lush feel to the décor. 

Another huge highlight are the food and beverage venues, which feel right-sized and curated, unlike the unwieldly slab of food court-like offerings you would typically associate with Las Vegas hotels. California meets the Mediterranean at Veranda – my favourite venue at the hotel. It’s an irresistible perch for breakfast, when the sun drenches the serene courtyard adjoining the pool. Don’t miss the most divine Farmer's Egg White Frittata, brimming with red peppers, asparagus, spinach, tomato, mushrooms, goat cheese, tomato coulis and baby arugula. Another top pick is the Citrus Lemon Ricotta Cheese Pancakes, with lemon meringue and warm maple syrup. Heaven! Apparently, Veranda is reputed as one Las Vegas's best places to go for a power breakfast. So don’t be surprised if you happen to spot a rock star or Hollywood legend across from your table! 

Cocktail time at Four Seasons. Photo / Four Seasons 

The other signature restaurant is Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina. The menu here touts globally inspired flavours, with the bespoke shellfish and caviar carts being a highlight, as well as the occasional live music. In the lobby, Press bar is a great little spot for cabinet food and coffee to go. They’ll get you sorted with great picnic hamper items too, like their fabulous Farro salads. And feeling particularly lazy, I also sampled the comprehensive in-room dining menu. Hello Sin City Angus Burger, complete with bacon, avocado and white cheddar cheese.  

After road-tripping my way from California, the body was certainly in need of some pampered panel-beating and The Spa at Four Seasons delivers in spades. Furnished in natural woods that are reminiscent of the surrounding desert, my delightful therapist treated me to a cranking Muscle Melt Massage. Geared towards muscle recovery and tension relief, she transformed my sore, tight and fatigued muscles with absolute aplomb.  

Finally, the pool scene at Four Seasons Las Vegas is next-level serenity. Solstice Pool, Cabanas and Bar is so idyllic, you could be forgiven for ditching your best-laid plans and parking yourself up here all-day. Crafted cocktails and light bites all add to the poolside appeal. Perfectly sized, Solstice Pool is the polar opposite to spring break-style chaos you might associate with other Las Vegas resorts. If you’re travelling as a family with kids in tow, youngsters particularly enjoy the neighbouring Mandalay Bay Pools complex, which you also have complimentary access too. It has a real sand beach, a lazy river and a 1.6 million-gallon wave pool! I’ll stick with the blissed-out tranquillity at Solstice Pool! 

Solstice Pool at Four Seasons Las Vegas. Photo / Four Seasons 

I flew to the USA with Fiji Airways who have spread their wings with an extensive international network, including multiple American destinations. From New Zealand, fly to Nadi from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch and enjoy seamless connections to the well-timed USA services. Fly your way with Fiji Airways with a flexible range of fares and add-ons, in Economy and Business class. If you fancy some extra comfort in Economy, opt for a Bula Space seat.  

Mike Yardley is Newstalk ZB’s resident traveller and can be heard every week on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.